Searching for Autumn in Gokase While taking photos for foliage updates, I went looking for autumn in Gokase🍁 Today I visited Gion Shrine in Kuraoka and three locations at Josenji Temple⛩️✨ ...but the leaves hadn’t changed color at all😂 Perhaps the lingering summer heat damaged the leaves and the small temperature differences are to blame🤔 Some maple-type trees showed partial color, but on closer inspection most leaves were blackened and withered in places😣 The maples at Josenji looked relatively pretty, but only in a few high-up sections, so overall it still feels like it’s just getting started💡 Josenji’s bamboo fence was repaired and looks fresh and neat👏 You can’t help but want to see that restored bamboo fence paired with beautiful autumn colors😭 Let’s pray the foliage progresses from here and keep watching over it🙏🙏🙏 The "Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024" event is also underway, so if you spot autumn colors in Gokase, please submit your photos🍁📸 For details, please see the pinned post titled "Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024" 🤗✨

Gokase Winery Harvest Festival 2024 Yesterday, Sunday, October 20, following last week’s events, Gokase Winery held the "Gokase Winery Harvest Festival 2024" to celebrate the release on Saturday, October 19 of the 2024 vintage new wines 🍷🎉 Although the rain from the day before was gone and the sky cleared, it turned sharply cold from the morning, and as the name suggests the Wind Hall felt chilled by strong, cold breezes today 🥶💦 Still, the crowd warmed up with a lineup of lively, exciting stage programs 🤩✨ Taiko drumming, hula dance, singing, and a raffle… and the familiar Hikari hosted the event 💡 Her light, bright hosting energized the audience greatly 🥳 She was so busy she kept appearing on stage again and again 🤣🤣🤣 Food stalls offering pizza, sausages, Kitaura scallops (hiougi kai), and various sweets that paired well with the new wine filled the venue and kept everyone happy 🤤💕 The highlights were the sashimi servings of sakuramai kampachi and tuna 🐟🍴✨ Fresh sakuramai kampachi, alive that very morning, were filleted on site and served to attendees 😍 Sakuramai kampachi raised on nutrient-rich pomace—the leftover pressed grapes from winemaking at Gokase Winery—have no fishy odor and less of the greasy taste typical of farmed fish, making them especially delicious 🤤💡 Lines snaked through the venue for the kampachi and tuna 😳 I managed to grab some myself; it had no off-putting smell, a smooth, mellow texture, and was truly delicious 🥰 The finale featured the main guest, Reiwa’s Showa-era pop song young star Kokoro Umetani, on stage 🎤✨ Kokoro appeared in an outfit that matched the wine-themed atmosphere 🤩🍷 Despite her cute appearance, her powerful, glamorous voice stunned the audience 😳✨ Fans had come from afar, including from Saitama Prefecture, to support her 👏 With fans and townspeople together, the stage reached a spectacular peak of excitement 🎉🎉🎉 At last, the newly released Gokase wines are now available. Although the summer heat had raised concerns about the harvest, the tireless efforts of local grape growers paid off. They harvested higher-than-usual sugar levels and aroma, producing exceptionally fine grapes and very tasty wine 🥹👏 I haven’t had a chance to drink it yet, so I can’t wait to taste it 🍷✨ Everyone, please enjoy the season’s wines.

"Takaharu Mystery Puzzle" ~The Stolen Era and the Prince of Beginnings~" A mystery-solving experience set in Koushiobaru Park in Takaharu Town begins next week on Saturday, October 5th. This content lets you experience a story where Takaharu Town's history and fantasy intersect. It's an experience that people from adults to children can widely enjoy! Take this chance to visit Takaharu Town! We look forward to welcoming many visitors! ーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーー <Event Overview> [Event Title] Takaharu Mystery Puzzle ~The Stolen Era and the Prince of Beginnings~ [Event Period] Saturday, October 5th, 2024 – [Participation Fee] 500 yen (tax included) [Mystery Kit Sales Location] Okukirishima Koushiobaru Park Campsite Administration Office [Recommended Age] 9 years and older (no age limit if accompanied by a parent) [Estimated Time] Approximately 60–90 minutes

Event announcement‼️ Be sure to check it out👀‼️ "Mountain Day Event" ‘Oujinooniwa’ ◯ Event Dates Sunday, November 3 Monday, November 4 (substitute holiday) It runs for two days! Location: Koushiobaru Park, Takaharacho Okukirishima Koushiobaru Hutte (former rest house) *Vendor event only on the 3rd. *The 4th is a mountain tour. November 3 We invite mountain-related vendors for sales, workshops, and body maintenance services. Under the title “Connecting Kirishima’s Walking Trails,” we will hold a talk show about mountaineering centered on Takaharacho and the Kyushu Nature Trail. A pleasant-sounding DJ will also perform at the venue♪ November 4 A trekking tour along the “Tenson Kourin no Michi” (the Path of the Descent of the Heavenly Grandchild). Guided by Mr. Ishikawa from Kirishima Geopark, participants will hear valuable stories about Kirishima, and at the summit enjoy a tasting and lesson on mountain coffee. After descending, you can soothe your tired body at Takahara’s hot springs. Although not listed on the flyer, there will also be a display of Toyota custom cars and some extra surprises. We will post more detailed information little by little, so keep checking for updates(^^) On November 3 and 4, come and visit the event ‘Oujinooniwa’ at Koushiobaru Park☆

[🍁 Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024 🍁] Until Saturday, November 30! Of course, autumn too!! Instagram campaign 🥳✨ Follow the Gokase Tourism Association Instagram account and post photos of autumn leaves taken in Gokase town on Instagram with the two hashtags: #Gokase Autumn Leaves 2024 and #Date of shooting (example: #October 31).👍💕 During the campaign, one person will receive a local specialty product from Gokase town every day as a gift 🎁❗ Outstanding works will receive a gift set of Gokase town specialties as well 🤩👏 Submitted works will be introduced on the Gokase Tourism Association’s social media and other channels as needed.🙇‍♀️ [Period] From Wednesday, October 16, 2024 to Saturday, November 30, 2024 ※Other terms and conditions are posted on the Gokase Tourism Association website. Please be sure to read them before applying. ※Please take care to avoid accidents when photographing. In particular, Shirataki is difficult to pass oncoming vehicles, and the road often has collapses and uplifts, so we do not recommend passage for those who are not confident driving or who do not want to risk damaging their vehicle. ------------------------------------------ Today I visited Unoko Falls, Yuhino Sato Bridge, and Gokase Gorge by car 🚗💨 From the Kuraoka area, it felt like Kuwanouchi and Sangasho areas had more advanced autumn colors.💡 The third photo is Unoko Falls that I took today! It looked like the leaves were just starting to change color. We will continue to update autumn foliage information on Instagram, Facebook, and our website, so please check them out.🤗 We look forward to many autumn leaf photos 🍁✨ Please send your entries enthusiastically—thank you 📸🙏

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungoono City [The 43rd Yujaku Autumn Leaf Festival] The Yujaku Autumn Leaf Festival takes place at Yujaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City. Enjoy the beautiful fall colors. During the festival, there will be illumination and local residents selling kusa-mochi (grass rice cakes) and other items. The leaves typically change color after November. [Period] Sunday, November 3, 2024 – Sunday, November 24, 2024 [Location] Yujaku Park (Kaminokozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City) [Parking] Available Illuminations [Dates] Friday, November 8; Friday, November 15; Saturday, November 16; Sunday, November 17; Friday, November 22 Saturday, November 23 [Time] From sunset until 9:00 PM Yujaku Night Kagura: Mizukagami (Water Mirror) [Date and Time] Saturday, November 9, 4:00 PM–8:00 PM ※In case of rain, the performance will be postponed to the following day [Location] Special floating stage on the Shinji Pond at Yujaku Park For event inquiries (Mizukagami, foliage conditions, etc.) Bungoono City Hall Asaji Branch Phone: 0974-72-1111 We will also post foliage updates on the Tourist Association’s Instagram. --- Access to downtown Bungoono City --- Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture -------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, local food, and accommodations in Bungoono City: Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We’d be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from the profile. --------

【October 13 — First Clear Sky in Seven Years!? Sunset Village Festa】 Yesterday, Sunday, October 13, the “Sunset Village Festa” took place at the Gokase Winery event square 🥳👏 Blessed with gloriously sunny weather that felt almost hot ☀️, the Sunset Village Festa had been plagued by rain for years, and this was the first time in seven years the event could be held in the square 😮❗ Vendors from neighboring Takachiho and Yamato towns joined in, and the venue was lively from the very start 🤗 On stage, familiar host “Dancing MC Nagisa Mama” led the program, which featured many acts—drums, dance, kagura, banba dance, practical karate, a performance by Gekidan Munno, a raffle interlude, and more—creating nonstop excitement 🤩💫 Nearby, a sweet potato digging experience ran alongside the festival, with children and adults getting happily muddy as they dug in 🍠✨ It felt like a true autumn event—take your harvest home and enjoy it deliciously 🤤💕 And of course, the headline guest MICA gave a live show that got everyone on their feet 🎤🌟 The crowd kept calling for encores—proof that everyone had a great time 🥳 MICA even said she’d love to come back 🎶 Everywhere you looked, the event was full of smiling faces—truly wonderful and so much fun 😆❤️‍🔥 More events are coming up, so let’s keep enjoying them to the fullest 🤩💪💕

Gion Shrine Autumn Festival “Okunchi” Today, Wednesday, October 9, the Gion Shrine in Kuraoka District held its autumn festival “Okunchi.”🤗 The light rain that fell until yesterday felt like a distant memory under a clear, delightful autumn sky.☀️ Gion-san’s power is truly amazing.👏✨ Even though the festival fell on a weekday this year, visitors from outside the prefecture and local children gathered from the start of the ceremony.😊 We were allowed into the main hall and were able to see the “Urayasu no Mai” dance.🥹 It was a beautiful dance that radiated tradition.✨ The Gion kagura also came with detailed explanations about how it differs from other kagura, which made it even more enjoyable.🤩 The Usu-daiko drum dance invited everyone, including the general public, to join in lively dancing, and the playful exchanges of the Yamaboshi question-and-answer skit added a comedic touch that made people chuckle.🤣 Traditional events can sometimes seem formal and stern, but this festival was anything but that—it was a truly entertaining celebration.💫 After the Usu-daiko dance there was a mochi-throwing event, and the festival concluded with a dedication of the Gion kagura, keeping the atmosphere lively from start to finish.🤗🎉

Japan Origin Site Festival‼️ About Matsuri Takahara 2024🎆 Date: 2024.10.20 (Sunday) Venue: Takaharacho General Sports Park ◎Japan Origin Site Festival 11:00–17:10 Stage Events 11:00–15:00 ⭐︎Shinonome Taiko Drums ⭐︎Karaoke Contest ⭐︎Preschoolers’ Stage Show ⭐︎Junior Chorus ⭐︎Speed Drinking Contest ⭐︎Raffle and more On-site Events 11:00–15:00 ⭐︎Calligraphy Performance ⭐︎Blood Donation ⭐︎New Sports Experience ⭐︎Inflatable Play Equipment ⭐︎Mobile Petting Zoo ⭐︎Working Vehicles Exhibition ⭐︎Miyazaki Beef Yakiniku ⭐︎Sports Corner ⚽️ In collaboration with Miyazaki Jingu Shrine 16:00–17:10 Matsuri Takahara 2024 Evening Stage Events 17:10–19:40 ⭐︎Junior High School Wind Ensemble ⭐︎Break Girls ⭐︎Hyuganokuni Eisa Drum Troupe Amaterasu Takahara’s Divine Dance (Sano Kagura) Fireworks Display 🎆 20:00–20:20 The exhibition of works will be displayed at the Town Gymnasium on the 19th and 20th, so please be sure to take a look‼️ The event is packed with activities! The program will be posted as soon as it is ready, so look forward to it♫ Also, there will be timed traffic restrictions around the venue; please check the flyer for event details and traffic regulation information‼️ #Miyazaki events #Miyazaki fireworks festival #Japan Origin Site Festival #Matsuri Takahara #Matsuri Takahara 2024 #Jimmu-sama #Jimmu-sama collaboration #Shishi-mai (lion dance) #Miko dance #Junior high collaboration #Fireworks Display🎆

A kagura festival in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. [The 37th Mount Ontake-style Kagura Tournament] Would you like to come and see the vigorous, splendid dances of kagura? [Date and Time] Sunday, October 27, 2024 — performances start at 8:30 AM (scheduled) [Venue] Kagura-no-Sato Nobaba Park (Udae, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) [Parking] Available Please note that parking spaces near the venue are limited. On the day, a shuttle bus will run from JR Bungokiyokawa Station. [Shuttle Bus (free)] Round-trip service between JR Bungokiyokawa Station and the venue JR Bungokiyokawa Station → via Kagura Hall (with parking) → Nobaba Park [Performing Groups] Asakusa-ryu Saeda Kagura (Notsu, Usuki City) Shonaihara Kagura Preservation Society (Shonai, Yufu City) Nakae Iwato Kagura Preservation Society (Namino, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture) Ontake-ryu Yoshida Rigakusa (Yoshida, Taketa City) Kiyokawa Children’s Kagura Preservation Society (Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) Ontake Kagura (Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) [Admission] Please pay at the venue entrance on the day. 500 yen for junior high school students and older (unreserved seating) Please refrain from reserving spots in advance of the day. ■■■ About the Mount Ontake-style Kagura Tournament The Ontake kagura passed down in Kiyokawa is said to have begun in 1449, at the same time as the founding of Ontake Shrine. This tradition has been handed down for centuries, and kagura in this lineage spread through Ono, Naoiri, the southern part of the prefecture, and as far as the Aso region. In 2007 it was designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the national government. We launched the Mount Ontake-style Kagura Tournament in 1988 to reexamine this local culture of kagura born from Kiyokawa’s landscape and to promote regional revitalization through kagura. The tournament gathers traditional cultures from many areas into one event. Centered on Ontake kagura, the bold and brilliant dances, along with the splendid performances by the Kiyokawa Children’s Kagura Preservation Society that carry the Ontake tradition into the future, captivate many kagura fans. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ---------- You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website from the profile. ----------

Thursday, October 3 — G Class: Tea Pan-Frying Experience at Miyazaki Sabou🍵 Today, third graders from four elementary schools across Gokase Town gathered at Miyazaki Sabou for a G class✍️💡…so I was able to observe their visit👀✨ We had considered skipping the tea-picking experience because of light rain, but the kids’ energy cleared the sky enough for a short session, so we did a little picking👏👏👏 Chanting “one bud, two leaves!” everyone happily hand-picked tea leaves🌿 After that, the group split into three teams to do 1) a factory tour, 2) a pan-frying experience, and 3) a tasting session✍️✨ 1) The factory was full of first-time sights! Different tea aromas drifted through the air, and just watching the tour felt soothing🤤💕 When told that a single tea leaf can become green tea, oolong tea, or black tea, the kids gasped “Whaaaat!?” with perfect reactions😳💮💮💮 lol 2) The pan-frying experience stemmed from what they heard on the tour: machines roast leaves at 200–300°C, so the kids nervously asked, “Is it hot!?”🤣 But trying it turned out to be fun🤩 They watched, fascinated, as the leaves dried and released a pleasant aroma, commenting “I like this smell!” and “But it’s tiring~💦” while learning the pan-fried tea production process😊 3) They learned about types of tea utensils and how to use them, the ideal water temperature for brewing, and other tips for making tasty tea, then each brewed and tasted pan-fried tea themselves🍵✨ One child said it smelled like corn soup, which surprised me, but apparently pan-fried tea is often said to have a corn-like flavor😮💡 The children’s sensitivities never cease to amaze me👏 They compared four teas by taste and tried to identify which was pan-fried tea, oolong, hojicha, or black tea. Many struggled, confused by the familiar colors and aromas🤣 Did you know? Taiwanese and Gokase oolong teas are closer in color to green tea rather than brown😏✏️ At the end, during the Q&A, the children asked sharp questions to the producers and summarized what they had learned✍️💫 The kids experienced the full charm of Gokase’s pan-fried tea and felt the producers’ passion😌 I hope they take pride in this local specialty and help weave the future of Gokase Town✨

Inukai Stone Buddha (National Historic Site) The Inukai Stone Buddha stands in Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The Inukai Stone Buddha is a rock-carved image sculpted into welded tuff from an Aso pyroclastic flow about 90,000 years ago. Based on the style of the figure, it is estimated to have been created in the Kamakura period. Although it represents Fudo Myo-o, its gentle facial expression is striking. The knees appear to sit in a cross-legged position, yet the carving gives the impression of being viewed from above, which is an intriguing technique. The stone Buddha is protected by a shelter, and the cliff above the roof bears the inscription "Ryudenzan." On the cliff to the upper right of the shelter, the large inscription reads "Namu Daishi Henjo Kongo." Access to central Bungoono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ---------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and accommodations in Bungoono City⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from our profile. ----------

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage "Ara Odori" on Sunday, September 29 Ara Odori took place on Sunday, September 29 🐵💫 The sunny weather was almost hot and great for photos, but I imagine it was truly tough for everyone who spent the whole day dancing in costume. Well done to all of you 👏 I was amazed to see so many people each memorizing their roles, dances, and songs to perform a single dance together 😳✨ Elementary school students joined in and danced Ara Odori partway through, and it moved me to see this tradition being passed down to people of all ages 🥹 I heard that Ara Odori used to ban women long ago, but even as the form has changed with the times, I felt a strong community spirit to protect the tradition together 💪✨ Today, students from Gokase Junior High School, who hope to share more of Gokase Town’s charm and traditions and make the town more vibrant, spent the whole day filming the Ara Odori on video for us 📸💡 We should be able to share that video soon, so look forward to it 🤗💕

‘Ichii-gashi in the Interval’ An ichii-gashi (Quercus gilva) in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This great tree stands in the mountains of Kiyokawa-cho. It is a centuries-old giant. You find the giant ichii-gashi deep along the forest road that leads to Mount Ontake in Souchi, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City. Its total height is 12 m, and its trunk circumference at chest height is 10 m. A hollow opens at the trunk’s center, and a small shrine stands inside. It is also designated as a Special Protected Tree by Oita Prefecture. Seeing it in person is an overwhelming experience. Turn left onto the forest road and drive about 500 m, then walk into the cedar woods on the right, cross a stream, and you will reach it in about two minutes. The site is little known and hard to find, so these photos should help convey its atmosphere. For more details, please contact the tourism association. Location: Souchi, Kiyokawa-cho

Nobeoka City Event Information ＼The season of Nobeoka’s suigo ayu-yana has arrived again this year!／ What is ayu-yana… Ayu-yana is a traditional fishing method that dams the river and creates an outlet in part of the flow, using the ayu’s instinct to swim downstream to spawn to guide them into a catch trap called otesu. While yana fishing is found across Japan, the Nobeoka Suigo Ayu-Yana stands out for its grand scale—constructed in spots where the river exceeds 100 meters in width—and for being set up close to the city center, a rarity elsewhere. On the Ose River, dining huts associated with the ayu-yana open, so you can enjoy a full course of freshly caught ayu—salt-grilled, miso-grilled, and more—while taking in the otherworldly scenery right before you. The sight of ayu being grilled on the riverbank has been selected by the Ministry of the Environment as one of the 100 Fragrant Landscapes, and it is the only site in Miyazaki Prefecture to receive this recognition. Each year a pier is laid out so visitors can walk out toward the center of the river, offering a chance to see ayu fall into the otesu up close. 👀✨ Please come and visit us!

September 23 (Mon) Red spider lilies announcing the start of autumn 🍁 Hello everyone 🤗! Gokase Town had an intense thunderstorm yesterday ⛈️, and today dawned bright and clear with a refreshing breeze 😌☀️! The atmosphere has completely shifted to autumn 🍁 — it feels so pleasant… ✨ Along the roadside in Gokase Town, as autumn approaches, you can sometimes spot striking red flowers 👀 — red spider lilies ☺️💡 So today I photographed the red spider lilies blooming near Yuuhi-no-Sato Ohashi bridge in the Kuwanochi area 📸💫 As their name suggests, red spider lilies reach their peak around the equinoctial week and are known as flowers that announce the start of autumn; they are also called lycoris or manjusha-ge 🤔 Their vivid red color and distinctive shape really catch the eye 👏 When I was shooting, various swallowtail butterflies swirled around them, creating an incredibly beautiful scene 🥹✨ Because their bulbs are poisonous, people have long planted them around rice paddies, fields, and graves to deter moles, so they carry a traditional Japanese charm that stirs nostalgic feelings when you look at them 😌… Spring and autumn especially bring out the beauty of plants — they are wonderful seasons 🍁. Let’s continue enjoying Japan’s four seasons 🤩✨

CAMP at Kijiya on Wednesday, September 18th⛺ I tried a CAMP experience at Gokase Onsen Mori no Yado Kijiya🔥 We planned to start while it was still light, but the sun set early and we began at dusk🌆 Still, we had a lively barbecue with everyone while watching the sunset from Kijiya on the hilltop🥩 The autumn night breeze felt pleasant and there were fewer bugs, so this season is perfect for camping💡 Come and try camping at Kijiya—it's highly recommended✨

[Friday, September 13] Unoko Falls Today I visited the viewing platform at Unoko Falls. The waterfall had a strong flow today, and it looked impressive from the platform. Mt. Aso was clearly visible from the winery.

Pumpkin Contest A pumpkin contest will be held at Koushiobaru Park (Jinmu no Yakata)! What is the Pumpkin Contest?? This year marks the 18th Pumpkin Contest! For those who remember, it used to take place around the same time as the Higanbana Festival! Around June, the Takaharu Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry distributes seedlings (four varieties) to people who will grow them! In September, pumpkins are delivered for inspection and judging (about 800 each year). From Sunday, September 22 to Monday, September 23 (a national holiday), a display and sale will be held at Koushiobaru Park! ---+---Admission to the pumpkin exhibition is free---+--- In the past, pumpkins over 80 kg have appeared, and we’re excited to see what kinds of pumpkins come this year! (*'▽') ---+---Edible pumpkins are available in addition to ornamental pumpkins---+--- We will also have edible varieties such as Fukuebisu, Butternut, and Colinky, so please buy them if you want to enjoy tasty pumpkins! ---+---Works by calligrapher Non-chan---+--- You can also purchase works by calligrapher Non-chan, known from Noyasobi Shima Shoya, on the day! They’re perfect as entrance decorations or gifts— you might find a wonderful piece!! Check the atmosphere in past photos! ---+---Contact---+--- Venue: Koushiobaru Park, 3-251 Kamamuta, Takaharacho, Nishimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture Display and sales: 9:00–16:00 Contact: Takaharu Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry 0984-42-4560

Mt. Ontake (Ondake) Mt. Ontake stands in Kiyokawamura, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Mt. Ontake rises to 568 meters. From the summit you get a superb view that takes in the whole Bungoono area. From the top you can see Mt. Kabeyama, Mt. Aso, the Kuju mountain range, and the Ono mountain area. The summit’s rocks are chart—a sedimentary rock formed from compacted plankton on the Pacific seafloor—that were swept onto the Japanese archipelago by plate movements. Passing through the torii and climbing a gentle stone stairway for about 10 minutes brings you to Mitake Shrine, said to have been founded in 1449, and the birthplace of Mitake Kagura. The rocky hill behind the shrine is called Sennodake and is regarded as a sacred place. When climbing Sennodake, enter with a feeling of gratitude and take great care with your footing, as the route remains rocky. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ---------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungoono City ⬇✨ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We’d be happy if you follow us 😊 A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from our profile. ----------

Ojibarako Park Spider Lilies in Bloom! There’s also an event announcement! (*'▽') At Ojibarako Park in Takaharacho, Miyazaki Prefecture, the spider lilies are now in bloom and at their best (*'▽') Legend says the first Emperor Jimmu was born and raised here, and the site is linked to the myths of Izanami and Izanagi and the story of the birth of the land. It’s about a 13-minute drive from Takahara IC and about a 10-minute drive from Takahara Station. The park has cottages on site! You can enjoy BBQs too! There are child-friendly facilities such as rainbow trout fishing, go-karts, and a wood-learning area, so kids can have fun❕ Besides the spider lilies, Ojibarako Park offers seasonal autumn foliage to enjoy throughout the year! Photos are from past seasons!! ★Event★ The 18th Pumpkin Contest will be held! Sunday–Monday, September 22–23, Reiwa 6 (2024), 9:00–16:00 Venue: Ojibarako Park (Jimmu no Yakata) Pumpkins will be available for purchase on site♪♪ Every year about 500–800 pumpkins are displayed at Ojibarako Park! You’ll see edible pumpkins and some unusually shaped varieties, and this year you might even spot a pumpkin over 100 kg!? Takaharacho’s calligrapher “Non-chan” will also sell cute brush-written pumpkins. They make nice decorations for entryways or gifts... Please come and join us (*'▽') You can find Non-chan the calligrapher’s homepage by searching online, so be sure to check it out❕

Introducing Isanoura Park in Isanoura, Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture. The park sits on the shore of Isanoura Dam Lake. It offers cottages and bungalows for overnight stays, and a campsite with a free-site area for camping. ■Accommodations require reservations; camping requires reservations and is limited to 30 groups per day. ■Meals are not provided. There is also a 5.2-kilometer cycling road that circles the dam lake, bicycle rentals (1 hour: adults 400 yen, children 300 yen), and boat rentals (from 30 minutes, 880 yen). Come and enjoy autumn in Saikai City, surrounded by nature.

Koishi, Asakura District, Fukuoka Prefecture Haramura Located in It is a terraced rice field. Refreshing blue sky, clouds, and rice terraces in midsummer It was beautiful with an idyllic Rural Scenery. 😄✨✨✨

Sugao Magaibutsu Sugao Magaibutsu is located in Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Sugao Magaibutsu consists of five cliff-carved Buddha images created in the late Heian period. They are carved into welded tuff from an Aso pyroclastic flow about 90,000 years old. The carvings are so beautifully and skillfully executed that they compare favorably with wooden Buddhist statues from Kyoto and Nara, and they are designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. They are among the most representative magaibutsu in Bungoono City. Access to Sugao Magaibutsu involves steep stone steps and slopes. Please take great care with your footing. Location: Asase, Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture About a 12-minute drive from JR mie town station (7–8 km) Cultural Property: Nationally designated Important Cultural Property ■■■ Magaibutsu of Bungoono City Magaibutsu are stone Buddha images carved directly into cliffs. Bungoono City has an exceptionally large number of magaibutsu even by national standards. Many of these were carved into welded tuff formed by cooled pyroclastic flows; carvers selected relatively easy-to-work sections without columnar joints. ■■■ Bungoono City Tourist Association The Bungoono City Tourist Association shares information on the city’s attractions and scenic spots. We would be delighted if you follow us. On other social channels we also post information on food, accommodations, and events. For details, please visit the Bungoono City Tourist Association website (link in profile).

Harajiri Falls Harajiri Falls is one of Bungoono City’s signature sights in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This fall spans 120 m and drops about 20 m, and unlike most waterfalls it lies on flat ground rather than in a mountain valley. It’s easy to visit because it sits right next to Roadside Station Harajiri no Taki. The waterfall formed as river water slowly eroded columnar jointing created by pyroclastic flows over many years. The road above the falls serves as a local residential route, and it’s interesting to see cars, pedestrians, and even the occasional tractor pass by. A promenade and suspension bridge around the falls let you enjoy views from various angles, and you can sometimes see a rainbow depending on the viewpoint. Location: 936-1 Harajiri, Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture (Roadside Station Harajiri no Taki)

Harajiri Falls Harajiri Falls, located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture in Kyushu, is one of Bungoono City’s signature tourist attractions.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan Video!! This is the Saikai City Tourism Association. Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture, sits in the northern part of the Nishisonogi Peninsula, roughly halfway between Nagasaki City and Sasebo City. It’s a place where you can feel rich nature and history. The city is bordered on three sides by the Goto-nada Sea, Sasebo Bay, and Omura Bay, and most of the area consists of complex ria coastlines. Saikai City is surrounded by a beautiful coastline and abundant nature, making it an attractive destination for visitors. We will introduce recommended information about Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture, on Cool Japan Video, so please enjoy. ◇◇◇ Access to Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture There is no train network in Saikai City, so you can reach it by car or bus. ◇ Access by car from Nagasaki city center It takes about one hour to drive from Nagasaki city to Saikai City. Use the Nagasaki Expressway and follow the Saikai Pearl Line to reach the city. This route offers a scenic drive along the beautiful coastline. ◇ Bus access from Nagasaki Station From Nagasaki Station, take Nagasaki Bus or Saikai Kotsu to Saikai City Hall; the trip takes about 1 hour 35 minutes. ◇ Bus access from Sasebo Station Take Saihi Bus to Saikai Bridge West Exit; the ride takes about 50 minutes. ◇◇◇ About Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture The population is about 25,000 people (as of 2024), and the area is characterized by a rich lifestyle lived in harmony with nature. Agriculture and fishing thrive here, and you can enjoy fresh local produce. Saikai City is especially known as a mandarin orange producing area, harvesting many crops thanks to its warm climate and fertile soil. ◇◇◇ History of Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture The western part of the Nishisonogi Peninsula and nearby islands prospered as whaling bases from the 1630s. From the Meiji era onward, coal mining began and the area enjoyed great prosperity. Later, in 2005, the five towns of Seihi, Ooshimacho, Saikai, Oseto, and Sakito merged to form the present Saikai City. ◇◇◇ Popular sightseeing spots in Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture Saikai City has many popular attractions. Here are some of them. ◇ Nagao Castle Ruins Observatory From the observation deck you can take in the islands of the Goto-nada Sea, and the fiery red sunset sinking into the sea is breathtakingly beautiful. It’s a popular spot for spectacular photos. ◇ Hachiningatake Park This park sits on the central ridge of the Nishisonogi Peninsula, and the lookout at the summit offers panoramic views of Omura Bay. The distant sea and mountains show different faces each season. ◇ The smallest park in Japan On Matsushima, floating off the west side of the Nishisonogi Peninsula in the Goto-nada Sea, there is “the smallest park in Japan,” with a natural wooden bench and a single palm-like shuro tree. From the park you can gaze across the open ocean. ◇ Sakito Seaside Park Sakito Seaside Park features clear waters and white sandy beaches. With toilets and showers available, it’s a recommended spot for summer visitors. ◇ Nanatsugama Cave Nanatsugama Cave is a limestone cave that rose from the seabed about 30 million years ago. Part of the cave is open to visitors. Admission: Adults 800 yen per person, Junior high students 400 yen per person, Elementary students 200 yen per person Infants (age 4 and over) 100 yen per person So far 35 cave sites have been discovered, but this vast cave system still has many aspects that remain unexplored. ◇ Roadside Station Saikai Roadside Station Saikai is a popular spot where you can buy local specialties and souvenirs. The original gelato and soft serve ice cream are especially recommended. The facility features a large semi-spherical dome shaped like a mandarin orange, offering visitors a fun experience. ◇◇◇ Experiences you can enjoy in Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture In Saikai City you can enjoy a variety of experiences broadly categorized as sea experiences, mountain experiences, and craft-making experiences. Here are some examples. ◇ Mandarin-picking experience Saikai City is known as one of the prefecture’s leading mandarin producing regions, and during the harvest season (typically November) you can enjoy mandarin picking. Picking fresh mandarins yourself is popular with families, and you can savor their juicy flavor right away. ◇◇◇ Local specialties of Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture ◇ Unshu mandarins (Satsuma mandarins) Saikai City’s Unshu mandarins enjoy a high reputation nationwide. There are early varieties such as Haraguchi early mandarin orange (late October to early December) and extra-early varieties such as Iwasaki early mandarin orange (late September to October). Grown in a warm climate and fertile soil, these mandarins are sweet and juicy and signal the arrival of winter. ◇ Oshima Tomatoes Saikai City’s Oshima Tomatoes are known for intense sweetness and acidity and are a popular local specialty (season: February to early May). Their high sugar content makes them taste almost like fruit. These specialties are also popular as hometown tax return gifts. ◇◇◇ Tourist information for Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture Surrounded by rich natural environments with a variety of attractions and experiences, Saikai City offers new discoveries each time you visit. We will continue to share more recommended information about Saikai City on Cool Japan Video, so please look forward to it!!

(3/3) I went to "Maruike spring water" in the spring water Town of Kagoshima Prefecture! I had been to Maruike spring water before, but this harvest was a small path that continued from the back of the pond. There was a waterway that I liked, so I went on, and at first it was a beautiful road with a bamboo fence and stylish electric lights, but as I went deeper, I was able to pass by a few private houses, and I was able to take a quiet and absent-minded walk. From the next time I went, I was satisfied that this path was also a set, and it was Maruike spring water in the summer of 2024.

(2/3) I went to "Maruike spring water" in the spring water Town of Kagoshima Prefecture! On this day, there were few ripples, and the bottom of the water was very visible. You can feel the underlying power of Maruike spring water where the dead leaves submerged in the water do not interfere with the scenery. Also, there is a staircase in the water that feels a little algae. If you concentrate only on this area, you can enjoy a submerged sense of the city (maybe). Then there was the moss thriving at a level that you would never see in the water. There were many of them growing as vigorously as broccoli, and it was a forest. of moss.

(1/3) I went to "Maruike spring water" in the spring water Town of Kagoshima Prefecture! It was a wonderful Spot where people came to fetch spring water with a large container, families picnicking on sheets in the shade of the trees beside the pond, and couples looking at the bottom of the water with a smile.